In a breakthrough for education in Niger State, the government has successfully settled its debt of N205 million owed to the West African Examination Council (WAEC) for the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) fees. This significant development was announced by Ms Aisha Wakaso, the Special Adviser to Governor Muhammad Umar Bago on Print Media, during a press briefing held in the state capital, Minna.
Ms Wakaso highlighted the government’s commitment to ensuring that the withheld WAEC results of students from Niger State were released. “Thanks to the prompt payment of the debt, the results of our students have now been released,” she shared. This resolution brings relief and joy to students and their families who have been eagerly awaiting their academic outcomes.
Aside from this positive news, Ms Wakaso also shared updates regarding the efforts to address transportation difficulties in the state. She revealed that the government has received samples of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses, which will soon be procured to alleviate the transportation challenges faced by the people of Niger State.
The state government had previously signed an agreement with four contracting firms for the purchase of at least 200 CNG buses at a cost of N7 billion. This initiative aims to mitigate the hardship caused by the removal of fuel subsidy and provide free transportation to pupils and students across the state. Governor Bago, speaking at the agreement signing ceremony in September 2023, stated that the delivery of the buses is expected to be completed within 12 weeks.
This positive development signifies the government’s unwavering commitment to education and the welfare of its citizens. By clearing the WAEC debt and making significant strides in improving transportation, the Niger State Government is making tangible progress in enhancing the lives and education of the people it serves.
